wind, in consequence of lightness and weakness, but solidly virtuous. Examine yourself seriously, whether this be your character, or whether like a reed you be easily shaken, by the breath of men, in your good purposes, and without the substance of solid virtue, to support your outward appearance of religion. External appearances of virtue, without the substance, is sacrilegious mockery.
II. The Baptist is also commended for the austerity of his life, and that he was not "clothed in soft garments." (Matt. xi. 8.) If you desire to merit the approbation of Christ, you must divest yourself of all superfluities in what regards your body. He is denominated by Christ "an angel," both in relation to his office and to the purity of his life. Endeavor to imitate him in his angelic behavior, and incomparable purity of life.
III. Upon this occasion Christ says, " the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent bear it away." Reflect how true was this expression in regard to St. John, to the martyrs, and in a word, to all the saints. There are two descriptions of Christian violence, one exterior, and the other interior. Both are necessary for a virtuous life. The first curbs the senses, the second brings under proper restraint, the wanderings of the imagination and the irregular desires of the will. With good reason, St. Jerome observes, "In proportion as you offer violence to yourself, in the same proportion will you advance." Examine your conduct carefully on this point.
